A rescued owl is receiving specialised veterinary care after suffering serious injuries in an alleged stoning attack by children in Nampundwe, Lusaka, reportedly fuelled by local superstitions surrounding the bird. According to a report by the Zambia Daily Mail, the owl sustained a broken leg and a suspected wing fracture during the incident before a […]

A rescued owl is receiving specialised veterinary care after suffering serious injuries in an alleged stoning attack by children in Nampundwe, Lusaka, reportedly fuelled by local superstitions surrounding the bird.

According to a report by the Zambia Daily Mail, the owl sustained a broken leg and a suspected wing fracture during the incident before a Good Samaritan intervened and rescued the injured bird.

The rescuer transported the owl from Nampundwe to Lusaka in search of assistance, ensuring it could receive the care it urgently needed.

The Lusaka Animal Welfare Society (LAWS) initially took custody of the bird and issued an urgent public appeal for experienced avian handlers to assist with its care and rehabilitation.

In a subsequent update, LAWS confirmed that the Department of National Parks and Wildlife (DNPW) had stepped in to take over the owl’s professional rehabilitation and veterinary treatment.
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The animal welfare organisation expressed gratitude to the individual who transported the owl to Lusaka, as well as the person who connected the rescuer to LAWS. It also thanked members of the public who responded to its appeal, shared the information and offered assistance.

“ A special thank you to the gentleman who brought the owl all the way from Nampundwe to Lusaka for help, and to the lady who connected the rescuer with us. We are also grateful to everyone who reached out, shared our appeal and offered assistance,” LAWS said.

The incident has drawn attention to the dangers wildlife can face when cultural beliefs and superstitions lead to harmful treatment of animals.

The owl’s rescue highlights the importance of public awareness, responsible wildlife interactions and timely intervention when injured animals are found. Members of the public are encouraged to seek help from relevant wildlife authorities and animal welfare organisations rather than harm wild animals.

The DNPW is now overseeing the owl’s rehabilitation and veterinary care.